The Oceans Umhlanga Mixed-Use Development in KwaZulu-Natal will officially launch its R1.4 billion North Oceans Residential Tower on Friday, 25 July. The new development expands a growing hospitality and lifestyle precinct that already includes the Radisson Blu Durban Umhlanga Hotel and Oceans Mall.

Part of the R4.3 billion Oceans Umhlanga master plan, the North Tower adds 258 high-end apartments to the precinct, ranging from studio units to four-bedroom penthouses—all with sea-facing views and direct access to Oceans Mall.

“This is not just a property launch; it’s a celebration of how far Durban has come, and a reflection of the developers’ (Vivian Reddy and Rob Alexander) tenacity and unwavering perseverance,” said Brian Mpono, CEO of Oceans Umhlanga Development. “The Oceans Umhlanga development has brought global attention to the potential of this province. We’re proud to now open the doors to a residential offering that reflects both international luxury standards and local ownership in a way South Africa has never seen before.”

The wider Oceans precinct has played a significant role in the region’s post-pandemic recovery, attracting international retail brands, boosting tourism footfall, and generating jobs in both the construction and service sectors. The Radisson Blu, opened in 2022, has positioned itself as a luxury hospitality anchor for both business and leisure travellers.

For the hospitality sector, the expansion of the precinct represents increased density and a growing base of high-end residential and transient visitors. The North Tower’s integration with Oceans Mall and its proximity to the hotel creates a walkable ecosystem combining accommodation, dining, retail, and leisure—all within reach of the beachfront.

Mpono said the development is also intended as a case study in inclusive growth. Around 50% of the construction workforce for the North Tower comprises young Black South Africans, with a notable proportion of young Black women. Within the mall itself, half of the retail space is Black-owned, and 12 of the 14 restaurants are operated by Black entrepreneurs.

“We are witnessing lives change in real time,” continued Mpono. “Young people are securing jobs in flagship luxury boutiques. Women are running thriving restaurants. Fathers who once struggled to find stable employment are now part of reliable teams in logistics and security. These are not just numbers on a spreadsheet—they represent families with renewed hope, dignity, and a real opportunity to participate in the economy.”

According to the developers, over 25,000 jobs have been created since the start of the project—many of them sourced from neighbouring communities such as Inanda, Ntuzuma, KwaMashu, and Blackburn. The knock-on effect has been increased employment in retail, hospitality, cleaning, security, and logistics.

The new residential tower offers features such as resort-style pools, yoga zones, children’s play areas, concierge services, ducted air-conditioning, and inverter readiness. It also offers direct pedestrian connectivity to the Oceans Mall and the uMhlanga beachfront promenade.

While formal data on the project’s economic contribution will be shared at the launch, the development is being positioned as a long-term asset in KwaZulu-Natal’s property and hospitality pipeline.

In Mpono’s words: “The completion of the Oceans Umhlanga Residential Towers is a vote of confidence from the developers—confidence in Durban, in our people, and in the kind of future we can build when world-class investment meets authentic transformation.” He added that a R1.3 billion leisure investment is planned for the South Tower, which is still to be announced.

The launch event on 25 July will bring together media, investors, developers, government officials, and economic analysts for a preview of the tower, along with keynote addresses from civic and provincial leaders.